Congratulations to two of our Yass FM presenters who were recognised for their contributions to the community in this year’s Australia Day Yass Valley Awards 2025.
Classic Yass Valley presenter John Thorne was awarded Volunteer of the Year for his leadership and organisation of the Murrumbateman Village Market, along with his many other contributions in supporting the Murrumbateman community, including his work with Yass FM.
Kath Kovac, from Friday Science with Dr. Kath, proudly helped receive the award for Event of the Year, which was presented to the Yass Valley Concert Band. The band held a fabulous concert in 2025 and has supported many other community events, including the Yass Christmas Carols, Australia Day celebrations, the Binalong Twilight Festival, and Yass Christmas on Comur Street. Kath (pictured far right) can often be found at the back, playing the drums and percussion for the band.
Three of our other Yass FM presenters were also included in the proceedings and nominated for an award, pictured here with John Thorn at the Yass Railway Museum nominee event. Technical Manager Steve Burn (second left) was nominated as Volunteer of the Year for his significant contribution to Yass FM and his countless hours of service keeping the station on air. Jo Shipley (far right) was part of the Murrumbateman Field Days team, up for Event of the Year, and disability advocate Andrew McGrath (far left) was nominated for Volunteer and Citizen of the Year.
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. 
Podcast – Listen in to Geoff talk to Jo live at the Australia Day Award Ceremony and hear who won!